Website development and design is part art and part science. Let me explain.
A website must be built not only for human consumption but also machine consumption. It needs to read one way to humans (i.e. be aesthetically pleasing, easy to read, accessible) but also needs to read another way to computers (i.e. properly structured, easy to navigate, good technical framework). Nowadays, not only does your website need to work on a computer but it actually needs to work on different types of operating systems, browsers, mobile devices, etc., depending on your target audience’s reach.
Unfortunately, to most small business owners’ chagrin, a comprehensive marketing plan doesn’t stop at hastily posting a website on the internet and leaving the core of content up to someone up to pen together. How does a small business owner overcome some the hurdles of a new website build without breaking the bank?
- Make sure that you get to know the person who is working on your new site. Do they understand basic design principles as well as the technical build itself? Be weary of commissioning someone who is a specialist in one and farms out the other aspect elsewhere. If you can find someone to integrate the process (ideally, one person or at least a two-person team) that would be ideal.
- Is your developer pulling their WAIT or pulling their WEIGHT? Sticking to the original proposed budget (both in money as well as timeline) will save you both headaches. If your designer/developer works odd hours (most do), make sure you give them all of the information they need beforehand so that they don’t have excuses!
- Never assume that the designer/developer is working on just one project at a time. Most of them juggle at least five or six simultaneously. If you expect exclusivity you will have to pay for it.
- Try not to get too involved. I know, I know, you’re paying for it and deserve to have your say. However, you have to understand that you have commissioned the help of an expert. So, let your expert do their work! If you have a question or concern, ASK. Designers/developers generally left to do the good work they are commissioned to do will naturally gravitate towards the projects that lack “helicopter” clients. If you give them room to breathe, they will generally do amazing work!
- Don’t assume that your designer/developer can read your mind. If you already getting a sense that they are not a good fit for either your aesthetic or work style, ask what the severance terms. Some may be happy to release the work for the price of a down payment, whereas others will try to keep working with you until you’re happy with your product.
- Send the shortest emails you can. If you can send your revision requests in a short, bulleted emails there will be less room for interpretation and more time for working! If designers/developers see an incredibly long email they generally shelve it until they finish their myriad of little tasks first so that they can focus their energy. Unless you want to be LAST in their priority list, I advise against sending epic emails.
- Unless you’ve enlisted the help of a communications or marketing agency, don’t assume that your designer/developer can do it all. Although Unicorn Press specializes in the design, marketing, and branding process, not every freelancer or company does. Screen their references and scrutinize their portfolio before asking.
The website design process can be tenuous. Hopefully these tips will help it be a little less stressful!
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